Aizawl: Chief Minister Lalduhoma on Thursday warned that emerging technologies such as drones could pose new challenges in the fight against drug trafficking, as Mizoram observed the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking at Dawrpui Multipurpose Hall.
Addressing students, government officials and civil society representatives, the Chief Minister said criminal networks involved in the narcotics trade were becoming increasingly sophisticated and that authorities must prepare for evolving methods of trafficking.
“The emergence of synthetic drugs, increasingly sophisticated criminal networks, and the use of advanced technologies for trafficking present new challenges in the fight against drugs,” Lalduhoma said, adding that drones could potentially be used for drug trafficking in the future.
The warning comes as Mizoram continues to grapple with drug-related challenges linked to its geographical proximity to regions known for illicit drug production and trafficking.
Lalduhoma stressed that while law enforcement agencies must continue efforts to intercept drugs and dismantle trafficking networks, prevention remains the most effective defence against addiction.
“While law enforcement efforts must continue, it is impossible to eliminate the threat entirely. Therefore, we must develop the strength to refuse drugs even when they are readily available. Experts agree that the best protection against drug addiction is never trying drugs in the first place,” he said.
The Chief Minister urged young people not to experiment with drugs under any circumstances, warning that many users begin by believing they can avoid addiction before eventually becoming dependent.
“Even if drugs are within your reach, do not experiment with them. They are tools of temptation that can destroy your life,” he said.
Lalduhoma also called on citizens to report drug peddlers and traffickers, saying those involved in the narcotics trade profit at the expense of lives, families and communities. Referring to recent trafficking cases, he warned that traffickers often exploit trust and friendship to persuade unsuspecting individuals to carry packages containing narcotics, resulting in arrests and imprisonment.
The Chief Minister said Mizoram had made notable progress in tackling drug abuse over the past two years through coordinated efforts involving government departments, civil society organisations, churches and rehabilitation centres.
According to him, scenes of drug users wandering on the streets of Aizawl and district headquarters, which were common in 2024, have declined significantly following targeted operations, awareness campaigns and rehabilitation initiatives.
He stressed that continuous learning, innovation and evidence-based awareness programmes would be necessary to stay ahead of evolving trafficking methods and protect future generations from substance abuse.
“Protecting Mizoram from the scourge of drugs and guiding our youth away from addiction is not only a social responsibility but also an essential task in safeguarding our State and our people,” he said.
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